Derby County's Nathaniel Phillips celebrates after scoring during the Sky Bet Championship match at MKM Stadium, Hull
Nat Phillips was on loan at Derby last season
West Bromwich Albion are reportedly interested in Liverpool defender Nat Phillips, who is set to leave Anfield permanently during this summer's transfer window.
Phillips, 28, spent the previous season on loan at Derby County, where he put in strong performances for the Rams, helping them avoid relegation under the guidance of John Eustace.
The central defender joined the Rams in August 2024, under Paul Warne, and went on to play 33 times. Indeed Eustace was so impressed he expressed his desire to bring
Phillips joined Liverpool from his childhood club Bolton Wanderers in 2016 and made his debut under Jurgen Klopp three years later. His only consistent run of games for the Reds came in the 2020-21 season when Klopp was dealing with a spate of defensive injuries.
During that campaign, which was played without spectators due to Covid-19 restrictions, Phillips made 20 appearances for Liverpool as they failed to retain their Premier League title. Following that season, he had loan spells with Bournemouth, Cardiff, Celtic and most recently, Derby.
With just a year left on his current contract, it's expected that Phillips will secure a permanent move away from Liverpool this summer.
According to The Athletic, West Brom have a 'strong interest' in the central defender, but they face competition as several other Championship clubs are also keen.
Eustace, who deployed Phillips in a back three for the Rams in the latter half of the season, alongside former Albion loanee Matt Clarke, developed a fondness for Phillips during their time working together.
"Absolutely," Eustace responded towards the end of the season when questioned about his interest in securing a permanent deal for Phillips.
"I believe he's been exceptional and his performances have been top-notch. His match-winning header last week [in a 1-0 triumph over Hull City] was brilliant."
Do Derby have a chance of signing Phillips? Have your say here
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